35A Series

Authorized Von Duprin 35A Distributor | Architectural Narrow Stile Solutions

Expert Field Guide: The Sleek Powerhouse for Modern Storefronts

When the job calls for high-security exit hardware but the aesthetic demands a clean, modern look, the Von Duprin 35A Series is the professional's choice. While it shares the exact same "industrial-strength" internal chassis as the 33A, the 35A is defined by its smooth mechanism case. This sleek design is a favorite among architects for high-end office buildings, modern retail storefronts, and glass-heavy entryways where a textured look would feel out of place. It fits perfectly on narrow stiles as small as 1-3/4 inches, ensuring that even the slimmest aluminum frames can be equipped with Grade 1, heavy-duty life safety hardware.

Beyond its looks, the 35A is engineered for silence and longevity. It features Von Duprin's signature fluid dampener, which eliminates the metal-on-metal "clack" during operation—a small detail that makes a massive difference in professional environments. Where cheaper narrow-stile bars feel flimsy, the 35A feels substantial and secure. It is also highly adaptable; whether you need a simple rim device for a single door or a 3527A Surface Vertical Rod for a pair of doors, the 35A platform delivers consistent performance. Lock Depot stocks the 35A in various architectural finishes, including Satin Aluminum (US28) and Dark Bronze (313), to ensure a perfect match for your existing door frames.

For the installer, the 35A is a dream because of its modularity. You can easily field-size the rail with a standard hacksaw to fit custom door widths. Furthermore, if the client decides to upgrade to electronic access control later, you don't have to replace the whole bar—you can simply swap in a QEL motorized latch retraction kit for whisper-quiet, remote-controlled entry. Lock Depot sells brand new Von Duprin 35A Series products with the full manufacturer warranty.

Von Duprin 35A Series Comparison

Model Application / Best Use Case Grade Fire Rating Key Differentiator Price
35A Rim Single Narrow Stile Glass Doors Grade 1 Available (35A-F) Smooth architectural case; 1-3/4" min. stile $$$
3527A SVR Pairs of Doors (No Mullion) Grade 1 Available (3527A-F) Two-point surface latching; smooth finish $$$$
3547A CVR High-End Concealed Vertical Rod Grade 1 Available (3547A-F) Rods hidden in stile; maximum aesthetics $$$$
QEL 35A Quiet Electronic Access Grade 1 N/A Motorized retraction; ideal for offices/clinics $$$$$

Pro-Tip: Avoiding the "Dogging" Deadlock

On the 35A Series, the dogging feature (which holds the push pad down for free passage) is located under the mechanism end cap. If you find the hex key spinning without engaging, do not force it. This usually means the internal dogging leg has slipped because the bar was "slammed" open too hard. Remove the end cap and manually depress the push bar while turning the hex key to re-align the teeth. For high-use retail environments, we always recommend upgrading to CD (Cylinder Dogging). It replaces the hex-key with a standard mortise cylinder, making it much harder for unauthorized people to mess with the door's state while making it easier for staff to manage with a key.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 35A compatible with the same trim as the 33A?

Yes. Both the 33A and 35A series use the 360 Series Narrow Stile Trim. Whether you need a 360L lever or a 360NL night-latch pull, the mounting holes and internal cam-action are identical for both the grooved and smooth-case versions.

Can I use a 35A-F on a wood door?

While the 35A is optimized for narrow stiles, the 35A-F (Fire-Rated) can be installed on wood or hollow metal doors. However, you MUST use Sex Bolts (SNB) to ensure the device is securely through-bolted. Without them, the fire-rating is voided because wood screws cannot handle the heat and pressure of a fire event.

Does the 35A come in different lengths?

Standard 35A devices are available for 3-foot (36") or 4-foot (48") doors. If your door is 30 inches, you buy the 3-foot version and field-cut the rail. Just remember to cut from the end opposite the latch to avoid damaging the internal mechanism.

What is the difference between SVR and CVR for the 35A?

SVR (3527A) stands for Surface Vertical Rod—the rods are visible on the face of the door. CVR (3547A) stands for Concealed Vertical Rod—the rods are hidden inside the aluminum door stile. CVR is the preferred choice for high-end glass storefronts where a clean look is the priority.

How do I maintain the smooth finish on a 35A?

Because the 35A is smooth, it can show fingerprints or smudges more easily than the 33A. We recommend cleaning with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, especially on Dark Bronze (313) or Black (622) finishes, as they can strip the architectural coating over time.